Carlton Street History

This image was catalogued in our collection as 'National School, Carlton Street, Manly.' However, this could not be correct, as the National School was further along Carlton Street, nearer the escarpment. We now reckon the photo shows a property named Fernleigh, which had frontages of 58 feet to North Steyne, 105 feet to Carlton Street, and 57 feet to Whistler Street. It was built in the late 1890s, and was originally the residence of a Presbyterian clergyman, Rev Fenwick.

In November 1923 the property was offered for sale. On the block of land was the old stone cottage, which consisted of five rooms, kitchen, bathroom, and laundry, with a flag floor, and shingle and iron roof. It was a desirable location and was quickly snapped up for re-development.

The site is now occupied by the attractive apartments at number 81 North Steyne.